Suffer the little children. It is ever the way, from Rwanda to Gaza

The phrase "Suffer the little children" is a quote from the Bible, specifically from the book of Matthew (19:14), where Jesus says, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." However, this phrase has taken on a different meaning in the context of war and conflict.

Children are often the most vulnerable victims in times of war and conflict. According to UNICEF, an estimated 250 million children live in areas affected by armed conflict worldwide. In such situations, they face various forms of violence, including physical harm, sexual violence, recruitment into armed forces or armed groups, and psychological trauma.

One notable example of the suffering of children in war-torn areas is Rwanda, where in 1994, an estimated 1 million people were killed during the genocide, many of whom were children. The conflict led to widespread displacement, separation of families, and the loss of basic services such as education and healthcare. Children were often forced to flee their homes, witness atrocities, or become orphaned.

Another region where children continue to suffer the consequences of conflict is Gaza. The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has resulted in numerous wars and clashes, leading to significant harm to children. According to Save the Children, more than 1,500 Palestinian children have been killed since 2000, and thousands more have been injured or traumatized. The blockade of Gaza has also led to a lack of access to basic services such as education and healthcare, further exacerbating the suffering of children in the region.

Children in conflict zones face numerous challenges that can impact their physical and mental health, including malnutrition, lack of access to education, and psychological trauma. They may also be forced to take on adult roles, such as caring for siblings or earning money for their families, which can limit their opportunities for growth and development.

Organizations such as UNICEF, Save the Children, and World Vision work to provide support to children in conflict zones, including access to education, healthcare, and protection services. However, more needs to be done to ensure that children are not forgotten in times of war and conflict and that they are able to live safe and healthy lives.